gaff
word
Definition
A 'gaff' is a pole with a hook for catching or lifting fish. Informally, it also means a social mistake or embarrassing error.
Usage & Nuances
In fishing, 'gaff' is specific equipment. In British and Irish slang, 'gaff' can also mean a house or place, and in informal speech anywhere, it's used for a mistake ('political gaff'). Don't confuse 'gaff' (error) with 'gaffe', which only means a social blunder.
Spanish: pértiga (pesca) - metedura de pata (informal)Portuguese (BR): bicheiro (pesca) - gafe (erro informal)Portuguese (PT): bicheiro (pesca) - gafe (erro informal)Chinese (Simplified): 鱼钩杆 - 失言(非正式)Chinese (Traditional): 魚鉤桿 - 失言(非正式)Hindi: गैफ़ (मछली पकड़ने का डंडा) - चूक (अनौपचारिक)Arabic: خطاف الصيد - زلة لسان (غير رسمي)
Example Sentences
He used a gaff to pull the big fish onto the boat.
basic
He made a big gaff at the meeting and everyone laughed.
basic
The fisherman sharpened his gaff before going out to sea.
basic
That politician’s last gaff was all over the news.
natural
Bring the gaff! This fish is huge!
natural
Oops, another classic work gaff—I sent the email to the wrong client.
natural